ST. PETERSBURG (BLOOM) – This Saturday, downtown St. Petersburg is set to witness a whirlwind of wagging tails and potential paw-mances with a unique twist on matchmaking: Speed Dating for Dogs. Scheduled for February 3, from 1 to 4 pm, this event is the brainchild of five local animal rescue organizations, aimed at connecting adoptable dogs with their forever homes in a fun and engaging way.

Corral, available for adoption.

Organized across three bustling venues in downtown St. Petersburg, including Pinellas Ale Works, Brick Street Farms, and Wild Roots, the event promises an afternoon filled with furry friends, love, and laughter. The participating rescue groups — Humane Society of Pinellas, Safe Paws Rescue, Limbo Chihuahuas Rescue, Skyway Dachshund Rescue, and Compassion Kind — will showcase their adorable adoptees in a speed dating format, offering attendees the chance to meet a variety of dogs in search of their perfect match.

But it’s not just about finding a new four-legged companion. The event will also feature chance drawing raffles, a silent auction, exclusive discounts, and freebies to sweeten the day. Dog kissing booths and photo ops will be available for those irresistible Instagram moments, all for a nominal entry fee of $15, which includes raffle tickets to partake in the day’s festivities.

Cara, available for adoption.

Event creator and organizer, Breck Pribyl, a St. Petersburg local and proud parent to Stewie, a tripawd adopted from Limbo Chihuahua Rescue, emphasizes the event’s dual purpose: to raise awareness for dog rescue efforts in Pinellas County and to give back to the community that supported her own adoption journey. “If you’re seeking the Pawfect Valentine’s Date, Best Furiend, or simply a fun Saturday surrounded by cute pups, this event is for you,” Pribyl states. “And the best part? 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit the participating rescue organizations.”

So, whether you’re in the market for sloppy wet kisses, endless love, or just a delightful afternoon among canine companions, downtown St. Petersburg is the place to be this Saturday. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to potentially meet your new best friend, all while supporting a great cause.